1977-04-28: Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker — United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) — Beale AFB, United States of America

No fatalities • Beale AFB, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

Probable cause

It was determined that a fence was broken and six cattle walked through and on to the main runway. Due to limited visibility caused by night, pilots and ATC failed to see the animals.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The crew was completing a night training mission at Beale AFB consisting of touch-and-goes. After touchdown, the airplane collided with cattle roaming on runway. Decision to abort was taken but unable to stop within the remaining distance, the airplane overran and came to rest in flames. All seven occupants escaped uninjured while the aircraft was destroyed. Five cattle were killed.

Probable cause (official findings): It was determined that a fence was broken and six cattle walked through and on to the main runway. Due to limited visibility caused by night, pilots and ATC failed to see the animals.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1977-04-28 Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker accident near Beale AFB, United States of America?

The crew was completing a night training mission at Beale AFB consisting of touch-and-goes. After touchdown, the airplane collided with cattle roaming on runway. Decision to abort was taken but unable to stop within the remaining distance, the airplane overran and came to rest in flames. All seven occupants escaped…

Were there any fatalities in the 1977-04-28 Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1977-04-28 involved a Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker, registration 58-0101, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Beale AFB, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

It was determined that a fence was broken and six cattle walked through and on to the main runway. Due to limited visibility caused by night, pilots and ATC failed to see the animals.

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